When History and Modern Day Collide

Beijing is one of the most fascinating cities you will have the joy to visit in your life, and if you can get there, it’s a definite must do!

Of course, Beijing is the capital of China, and is the second largest city in the country – the fact that China is the most populated country in the world should tell you a lot about how busy and bustling this city is!

Aside from the sheer number of people there, Beijing is a historic city, and was once the seat of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. If you can learn a few words of Mandarin, your visit will be enhanced ten-fold, but English is widely spoken also.

Getting around the city takes some concentration, because it is so big and because of the distances between attractions and areas. The airport is located just outside of the city, and again, some consideration needs to be given on how to get from A to B. Have you thought about hiring a limo? This is a special city, and it needs a special entrance!

The city itself needs some research in terms of what to see, because it is so big, but if you want to check out some of the Great Wall of China, you can find this in rural Beijing, a stone’s throw from the city limits. Sticking to the interior of the city, Tian’anmen Square is the world’s biggest square and it is a definite must do. Here you will find some stunning architecture and buildings, and the Forbidden City is close by. This is where the former dynasties were seated, and it has remained basically as it was back in the day. The Temple of Heaven is another place to check out, located in the Chongwen District, and this is a place packed with green spaces and breath-taking temples.

Museum lovers will be in their element with over 100 different museums to check out, and many of them area free. The Forbidden City itself is classed as a museum, able it a UNESCO World Heritage listed one!

Of course, this being a big city, there are plentiful modern-day activities to enjoy too, such as nightlife, shopping, and all manner of shows and theatres to enjoy. You can’t visit China and not enjoy some delicious Chinese cuisine! There are countless small authentic restaurants around, and it’s often better to head to one of these, rather than the big-named establishments, not only for lower prices but also for more delicious dishes.